By Rich Larson
Northfield Pride returns Saturday, June 6, with a full day of events designed to bring the community together, from an early morning Rainbow Run to an afternoon festival in Central Park and an evening after-party.
“This year is really about leaning into our community partnerships,” said Angela Gustafson, chair of the Northfield Pride Board. “We’ve had so many individuals and organizations step up with ideas, and we’re excited to support them and help everything come together.”
The day begins at 8 a.m. with the inaugural Rainbow Run, organized by the Northfield Area Family YMCA. Participants can choose a 5K or 10K course starting at the YMCA and finishing near downtown, with a colorful twist. Runners and walkers will collect pieces of a rainbow at stations along the route, ending the race fully decked out in Pride colors.
Organizers say the event is designed to be accessible to all. Families, walkers and even participants with strollers are encouraged to join. “We just want everybody to be able to participate,” organizers said, emphasizing the inclusive spirit of the run.
Following the race, the Grand Event Center will host a fundraising breakfast benefiting Northfield Pride from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving participants a chance to refuel before the main festivities.
The centerpiece of the day, Pride in the Park, runs from noon to 4 p.m. in Central Park. What began as a small library program in 2020 has grown into a large-scale community festival featuring about 80 vendors, interactive booths, food trucks and a wide range of performances.
“It’s colorful. It’s joyous. The energy is contagious,” Gustafson said.
This year’s stage lineup includes musicians, drag performances, ribbon dancing, a choir and crowd-favorite dance parties, all hosted by master of ceremonies Jay “Jay Jam.” The event will also include the presentation of a Pride scholarship and recognition of the 2026 Pride Ambassador.
Additional activities and performances will be scattered throughout the day, including an after-party at Imminent Brewing at 5:30 p.m., offering another chance to connect and unwind.
Gustafson noted that while June 6 is the highlight, Pride events will continue throughout the month, reflecting the organization’s growth since becoming a nonprofit in 2024.
“Pride in Northfield has grown exponentially,” she said. “It’s become something that truly reflects how this community comes together.”
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
